Politicians are to discuss whether grandparents should have rights.

In November Tynwald referred the petition for redress of Heather and Terry Miles about the issue to the social affairs policy review committee.

The committee is inviting written submissions from anyone who wishes to comment on this matter.

The petition can be found on the Tynwald website.

The petitioners’ evidence included newspaper stories about the difficulties faced by grandparents when they are denied the chance to see their grandchildren because of family disputes.

Policy review committees are limited by their remits.

They cannot become involved in or advise on individual cases. They may only use such cases to demonstrate the impact of policy and legislation on the public.

Committees are willing to hear evidence in confidence. This is designed to help to improve a committee’s understanding of the matters it is investigating.

Submissions should be emailed to [email protected] or posted to Jonathan King, Clerk of the Social Affairs Policy Review Committee, Legislative Buildings, Douglas, IM1 3PW.

Email is preferred but hard copy is equally acceptable.

The committee’s members elected are David Cretney MLC (chairman), Martyn Perkins MHK and Julie Edge MHK.

The progress of the inquiry can be followed via the Tynwald website.